The best ways to see the Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is an essential attraction for any first-time visitor to NYC. If you’re wondering how you should go about getting a few good photos of this iconic NYC attraction, here are the 3 best ways to see the Statue of Liberty.

1. SEE THE STATUE FROM AFAR ON THE STATEN ISLAND FERRY

If you want to see the State of Liberty for free, this is the best way to do it! To get there. head to the Staten Island Ferry terminal next to Battery Park. The ferry departs approximately every half hour and can get very busy, but don’t be deterred by the masses of crowds around the entrance – the ferry is very large so there’ll be plenty of room everyone to board.

This ferry will take you to Staten Island… and directly past the Statue of Liberty on the way. If you want to get the best view, try to get on with the first hundred or so people and head straight for the right-hand side of the boat, as this is where you’ll get the best views of the statue. After you’ve passed it, move to the back of the boat for some fabulous views of the Manhattan skyline.

Price: Free

2. GET AN UP CLOSE LOOK ON A CRUISE

A cruise will take you up close (much closer than the Staten Island Ferry) to get a good look at the statue from the water, which means you’ll be able to get up close without queueing up for hours in the long lines for security and ferry departures to get to Liberty Island.

Cruises require booking ahead to reserve your spot. Many of the boats also have cafes and bars on board, and are a lot more intimate than the Liberty Island ferry, so if you don’t like crowds but still want to get close to the statue, this option is for you. There are a few different companies that offer cruises around the statue:

If you’re absolutely dying to go up and touch Lady Liberty’s long green robe, you can get tickets to visit Liberty Island with Statue Cruises. Tickets can be purchased on the day, but if you want pedestal access or crown access (where you climb all the way up to the top of her head and look out her crown) you will have to book it in advance.

One thing to note is that this is the most time-consuming option, as you will have to wait in long lines for security and ferries (which depart every 30-45 minutes) no matter what time of year you go. Still, this is easily the most comprehensive way to experience the Statue of Liberty. There are a few cafes and a cafeteria on Liberty Island, but the food is rather bland and overpriced so bring your own snacks with you if you prefer not to waste your money.

Tickets on Statue Cruises also include a visit to Ellis Island, so if you’re interested in making a day of it, you can hop off the ferry and learn all about the 12 million immigrants who were processed here.